Nintendo reveals first new Switch 2 Joy-Cons but fans aren’t thrilled

New, unofficial Joy-Cons for the Nintendo Switch 2 have been shown off, and the reaction from fans is mixed. Some people aren’t thrilled with how they look, and others are concerned about how much they cost.

It’s been six months since the Switch 2 launched, and we’ve already seen some fantastic games like Mario Kart World and the latest Metroid title. Because the console is selling so well, Nintendo is now releasing its first collection of alternative controllers.

Similar to the original Switch, which gained many different colors and special edition Joy-Cons over time, the new Switch 2 will likely offer a variety of designs. A first updated model has just been revealed, but the response online hasn’t been very positive.

Fans have been taking issue not only with the design of the first new Joy-Cons, but also the cost.

New Switch 2 Joy-Cons revealed, but fans are torn

Nintendo announced on January 8, 2026, that Switch 2 owners will soon be able to purchase new Joy-Con 2 controllers in Light Purple and Light Green. These colors are sold as a pair – a Light Purple left controller and a Light Green right controller – and aren’t available as individual colors in a full set.

The design changes are very minor. The connectors where the controllers attach to the Switch are now a different color, and the area around the analog sticks has also been slightly recolored. Otherwise, the new version looks almost exactly the same as the original.

This is the opposite of what we saw with the original Joy-Cons. Those controllers came in fully swapped colors, while the center connection piece stayed black.

The first design option costs $99.99 and will be released on February 12, 2026. You can pre-order it now.

The announcement received a varied reaction online. Some people criticized the slight color changes, pointing out that the new colors won’t be noticeable most of the time.

Someone pointed out that while Nintendo’s new Joy-Con colors are nice, many will notice the high $100 price tag.

It’s great Nintendo is offering new Joy-Con colors, but many people are noticing the $100 price tag. 🫠

— NintenTalk (@NintenTalk) January 8, 2026

If you play with friends and family using the Joy-Cons, you’ll notice the purple and green colors quite a bit. However, if you usually play the console connected to a TV, you won’t see those colors as often.

One user pointed out that it would likely be simpler to just purchase colored wristbands, as that’s all anyone would notice.

What happened

— Calvin Brain (@calvinbrain97) January 8, 2026

Honestly, seeing mostly black with just a hint of color underneath the Joy-Cons is a bit disappointing. I’m really hoping for vibrant, actual colors on the next Switch!

Accessory maker Dbrand playfully responded to Nintendo’s recent color choices by releasing full-body skins for the Joy-Con controllers in the same shades. They jokingly stated, “We’ve got you covered.”

Even Dbrand taking shots at Nintendo.
byu/Rare_Ad_3871 inNintendoSwitch2

However, not everyone dislikes it. Some people actually like the muted colors, saying they create a stylish look.

People generally like how the designs look, but many are hesitant because of the $99.99 price tag.

They’re lovely, but I’d never spend that much unless I absolutely had to – like if my current ones were unusable.

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2026-01-09 07:19